Classic Old-Fashioned Beef Goulash (Easy One-Pot Comfort Dinner)
This Classic Beef Goulash is a hearty, old-fashioned comfort food recipe made with tender elbow macaroni, lean ground beef, and a rich tomato-based sauce. It’s an easy one-pot dinner that comes together with simple pantry ingredients and delivers big flavor—perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or feeding a hungry family.
Warm, filling, and budget-friendly, this American goulash recipe is the kind of meal that tastes even better the next day.
Why You’ll Love This Easy Beef Goulash
One-Pot Meal – Minimal cleanup and simple cooking
Budget-Friendly Dinner – Uses affordable pantry staples
Family-Approved Comfort Food – Hearty, cozy, and satisfying
Great for Meal Prep – Reheats beautifully for leftovers
Customizable – Easy to adapt with extra veggies or spices
Ingredients
2 lbs lean ground beef
1 medium onion, finely chopped
1 medium green bell pepper, finely chopped
1 (32 oz) can tomato juice
2 cups elbow macaroni (uncooked)
1 (16 oz) can diced tomatoes, with juices
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus more for serving)
How to Make Old-Fashioned Beef Goulash
Prep the Vegetables
Finely chop the onion and green pepper so they blend smoothly into the sauce and cook evenly.
Brown the Ground Beef
In a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat, cook the ground beef until fully browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain excess grease if needed.
Add Onion & Pepper
Stir in the chopped onion and green pepper. Cook for 5–7 minutes, until the vegetables are softened and fragrant.
Build the Tomato Sauce
Pour in the tomato juice and diced tomatoes (with their liquid). Stir well to combine and bring everything together.
Add the Macaroni
Stir in the elbow macaroni, making sure the pasta is fully submerged in the sauce for even cooking.
Simmer Until Tender
Bring to a gentle simmer, then reduce heat to low. Cover and cook for 20–25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the macaroni is tender and the sauce thickens.
Serve & Garnish
Remove from heat and serve hot. Finish with grated Parmesan cheese for a savory, comforting touch.
Cook Notes & Easy Variations
Cheese Swap: Try cheddar, mozzarella, Colby-Jack, or a cheese blend for a richer finish.
Add Some Heat: Stir in crushed red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
Veggie Boost: Add diced carrots, celery, mushrooms, or zucchini for extra nutrition and texture.
Make It Creamy: Stir in a little sour cream or cream cheese at the end for a creamier goulash.
